How Does EV Charging Work?

Thanks to advances in technology, it’s now considered normal for many people to drive Electrical Vehicles, or EVs. This is a huge step in mankind’s evolution: a way to transport ourselves effectively from place to place, while also saving our environment in the process. If you’ve recently crossed over into the EV camp, congratulations! You’re probably loving your new wheels and the way heads turn when you drive down the road, right?

One thing that confuses many EV owners, however, is how the charging element of their new vehicle works. Those big charging stations that look like petrol pumps can be a bit intimidating, especially when you’re not sure which one you should use! No worries, we’ll explain all that for you here. This post is about how EV charging works, so you can understand this confusing topic a little better:

What are EV Chargers?

EV chargers are electrical devices that can be installed at your home or office. They plug into the local via a dedicated circuit, to provide an electrical charge to your EV’s battery. This allows you to drive your EV without having to stop and charge it (like you used to stop for petrol). EV chargers only emit electricity when plugged into your vehicle’s charging port, which prevents wasted energy and ensures safety. They come in 3 types, which are: 

Level 1: Portable EVSE

Portable EVSEs don’t require professional installation since they use a 120-volt AC plug, which is compatible with most household outlets. They deliver about 2-5 miles of driving per hour charged, which is why they’re good options for charging your EV at home overnight.

Level 2: Wall Chargers

Wall chargers have to be installed professionally and can be used for either home or commercial charging purposes. They use either a 240-volt plug (for residential charging) or a 208-volt plug (for commercial charging). They provide a much faster charge than Level 1 charging units and deliver about 10-60 miles of drive time per hour charged.

Level 3: DC Fast Chargers

DC fast chargers are the fastest option and provide up to 100 miles of driving time from only 20 minutes of charging. They require high-powered, specialized equipment to install, are mostly used for industrial and commercial applications, and they’re not compatible with all EVs.

What Type of EV Charger is Right for You?

Your preferred EV Charging Station will depend on several factors, including:

• Whether you can leave your vehicle to charge overnight
• What type of charging station your EV is compatible with
• Whether you plan to upgrade your vehicle or keep the same one for a while
• The specific power capabilities of your home or office 

Conclusion

Now that you’re the proud owner of an Electrical Vehicle, it’s important to stay informed on its specifications. Knowing which EV chargers your vehicle is compatible with will save you the headache of finding yourself halfway home with no charge — being prepared is key! 

With matters of electricity, it’s important to stay safe. Calling a licensed electrician to install your EV charger professionally will ensure your safety and avoid any compatibility issues that may arise.